Introduction:

Levers offer one of the most common examples of mechanical advantage.

Activity:

Try the lever stations provided by your teacher. Figure out which side has a greater force and which side moves a greater distance.

The Essence of The Gear:

• An input at one distance from the fulcrum moves an output at a different location from the fulcrum
  • A small force with a long lever arm can apply a large force on a short lever arm (pry bar).
  • A large force on a short lever arm can build up great speed on a longer lever arm (trebuchet or mousetrap).
• MA = (Input Distance) / (Output Distance) OR MA = (Length of Input Arm) / (Length of Output Arm)

Video of 2007 RGD

Conclusion:

Start to look for materials that could be used as simple machines! Start to collect junk for your RGD!